FIA Confirms 2027 Engine Power Split Overhaul and ADUO Evaluation Changes

The FIA has taken two major steps in shaping Formula 1’s future, announcing an in-principle agreement on 2027 engine rule tweaks that would shift the power balance toward the combustion engine, while also updating the ADUO evaluation timeline with immediate effect to help lagging manufacturers catch up.

Why it matters:

These changes represent the sport’s ongoing effort to improve wheel-to-wheel racing and competitive balance. The 2027 power split adjustment addresses driver feedback that current hybrid deployment creates an artificial driving feel, while the ADUO system overhaul ensures that no manufacturer falls too far behind during the new regulation era.

The Details:

• 2027 Engine Power Split: The proposed package would increase ICE output by approximately 50kW via higher fuel flow, while reducing ERS deployment power by a similar amount. The goal is a more intuitive and competitive driving experience.
  • The changes are not final; further discussions with teams, manufacturers, and drivers are required before the definitive regulations are approved.
• ADUO Evaluation Updates: The first assessment moves to after the Canadian Grand Prix, the second after the Hungarian GP, with the final evaluation still after the Mexico City GP. The removal of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia from the calendar necessitated the shift.
• Additional Development Hours: The scale has been revised. Manufacturers with a deficit of less than 2% get no extra time. Those 2-4% behind get 70 hours, 4-6% get 110, 6-8% get 150, 8-10% get 190, and over 10% get 230 hours – a change that could particularly benefit Honda.

What's Next:

The 2027 regulation package is expected to be finalized later this year after more stakeholder consultations. The immediate ADUO changes mean the first performance review will take place at the Canadian GP in June, where the competitive picture among engine suppliers will become clearer. These developments underline the FIA’s proactive approach to ensuring F1’s power unit regulations deliver both spectacle and fairness.